Pictures: Rodney Crowell and Big Star Quintet lead lineup for Kilkenny's 2026 Smithwick’s Roots Festival

An outstanding line-up of international artists from America, Europe and the UK will play venues across Kilkenny’s historic city centre as the Smithwick’s Kilkenny Roots Festival returns for its 28th edition from May 1-4, 2026.

Leading this year’s programme are a host of acclaimed acts, including Rodney Crowell, Big Star Quintet, Florry, Friendship, The Long Ryders, and Modern Nature, alongside a rich mix of emerging talent and established voices from across the global roots scene. The 2026 festival was officially launched at Smithwick’s Experience, Kilkenny last week.

“As ever, the festival combines a diverse programme of ticketed concerts with the hugely popular Smithwick’s Music Trail, featuring free live performances in venues throughout the city, creating a vibrant atmosphere across the May Bank Holiday weekend," says organiser Gary Kehoe.

“The 2026 Smithwick’s Kilkenny Roots Festival promises another unforgettable weekend of world-class roots music, set against the unique backdrop of Kilkenny’s medieval streets and venues."
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Smithwick’s Experience will once again host a series of international performances across the weekend, including Grey DeLisle (USA) on Friday, May 1, at 5 pm; The Equatorial Group (UK) on Saturday 2 May, also at 5 pm and Satellite Inn from Italy on Sunday, May 3 also at 5 pm.

The Smithwick’s Brand is privileged to host the launch party and to be the main sponsor of the Kilkenny Roots Music Festival again this year, according to Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny Manager Ignacio Peregrina.

“As part of the Roots Festival, Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny will host three, free live performances in the cosy Barrel Yard. Smithwick’s is proud to once again be the headline partner of the festival, continuing the long-standing legacy of supporting Kilkenny's vibrant music and cultural scene. We look forward to welcoming music lovers to experience the immersive tour and enjoy the bounty of live music on offer.”

Among the key artists performing this year are Rodney Crowell. The multi-Grammy Award-winning songwriter and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee is one of the most influential figures in Americana music. With 15 No 1 hits and songs recorded by artists including Johnny Cash and Emmylou Harris, his career spans over four decades.

Big Star Quintet are another key act performing in Kilkenny. Featuring Jody Stephens (Big Star), Mike Mills (REM), Jon Auer (The Posies), Norman Blake (Teenage Fanclub) and Chris Stamey (The dB’s), the Big Star Quintet brings new life to one of rock’s most revered catalogues. Their performances have earned widespread acclaim for both authenticity and energy.

Festival revellers will also get to see and hear Florry. Philadelphia-based Florry blend rock & roll with a raw, DIY spirit. Led by Francie Medosch, the band has received praise from Pitchfork, Stereogum, and Paste, and are known for their high-energy, emotionally charged live shows.

Another big act set to enthral are Friendship. Signed to Merge Records, Friendship push the boundaries of country and indie-folk. Songwriter Dan Wriggins’ distinctive baritone sits at the centre of richly textured arrangements, marking them as one of the most compelling acts on the current scene.

Roots revellers can also look forward to seeing The Long Ryders live on stage. Pioneers of alt-country, The Long Ryders emerged from the 1980s college radio scene with a distinctive blend of punk energy and Byrds-inspired harmonies. With a celebrated live reputation and recent releases including September November, they remain a vital force.